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This herb butter turkey rub blend will give your turkey a beautifully aromatic flavor, help it turn golden brown and crisp, and keep the meat juicy.
It’s one of the secrets to my famous juicy roasted turkey recipe.
Should I use Herb Butter on my Turkey?
Yes, absolutely! Rubbing butter under the skin of your turkey is a fantastic and easy way to add moisture and flavor and help the skin become golden and crispy as it roasts. It is our favorite way to season our turkey for roasting. Here’s why:
- Moisture: The butter melts into the meat while it cooks, keeping the turkey juicy and preventing it from drying out.
- Flavor: When mixed with herbs and seasonings, the butter infuses the meat with rich, aromatic flavors that permeate through the bird.
- Crispy Skin: Butter helps the skin get beautifully browned and crispy, which many people look for in a perfectly roasted turkey.
It’s a simple but impactful step to enhance your turkey’s overall flavor and texture! You can also use it on roasted chicken or perfectly cooked steak. This turkey recipe pairs well with twice-baked potatoes or best mashed potatoes for your next dinner party!
Table of Contents
Simple Ingredients
This easy herb butter adds a unique layer of flavor to your turkey! It’s a great way to flavor your turkey with tons of flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: The base of the herb butter, it melts into the turkey, keeping it moist and flavorful, while also helping to crisp up the skin.
- Salt: Kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the turkey and helps season the meat evenly.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth, balancing out the richness of the butter.
- Fresh Rosemary: Provides a piney, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey, adding freshness and a fragrant aroma.
- Fresh Thyme: Lends a mild, lemony flavor that complements the richness of the butter and the savory turkey.
- Fresh Sage: Adds a peppery, slightly bitter flavor, giving the butter a warm, rustic taste that’s perfect for poultry.
- Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest (optional)
Feel free to use a variety of fresh herbs, especially those from your herb garden. Any combination of herbs makes a tasty herb butter.
See the printable recipe card for quantities.
FAQ’s
The best way to cook a turkey with herb butter is by roasting. Rub the herb butter under the skin and all over the turkey. Roast at 325°F, basting occasionally with pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F. This method ensures a golden, crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat!
Gently loosen the turkey skin by sliding your fingers between the skin and meat, starting at the neck. Once loosened, spread the butter evenly under the skin, then smooth the skin back down.
Yes! You can prepare the herb butter up to 5 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.
Absolutely. You can freeze herb butter in an airtight freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using it.
Yes, herb butter works great on chicken, beef, lamb, or even fish. It adds richness and flavor to any roasted or grilled meat.
Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage are classic choices for poultry. You can also experiment with any other herbs like parsley, tarragon, or oregano for different flavors. Use your favorite combinations based on preference.
When substituting dried herbs for fresh herb butter, use this simple guideline: Use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. For example: 1 tablespoon fresh = 1 teaspoon dried. Rub the dried herbs between your fingers before mixing them into the butter to release more of their oils and flavor.
How to Make Herb Butter for Turkey
This easy homemade herb butter comes together in a few easy steps.
First, make sure you use softened room-temperature butter (not melted butter!).
The herby butter is ready to use!
How to Prep A Turkey
For more on turkey baking, see my complete guide for Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe.
Pat the turkey dry with a paper towel.
Gently loosen the turkey skin from the meat and rub a generous amount of the herb butter under the skin and all over the outside of the turkey.
This ensures a crispy, golden skin and infuses the meat with flavor.
Your herb-roasted turkey is ready to bake!
Use this easy herb butter recipe to coat your turkey before roasting, and don’t forget to baste it with pan drippings while it cooks for extra moisture!
Variations
- Citrus Herb Butter: Add lemon or orange zest and a splash of juice for a bright, tangy flavor. This works especially well with poultry or fish.
- Garlic Butter: Mix in fresh garlic (use a garlic press) for a more robust, savory flavor. Great for roasted meats and vegetables.
- Spicy Herb Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne for a bit of heat.
- Mixed Herb Butter: Use a blend of different herbs like parsley, tarragon, or dill for a unique flavor twist.
How to Store Herb Butter
To store cooked turkey, let it cool, then place it in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil or a piece of plastic wrap. You can also shape it into a butter log and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to store any leftover herb butter in a separate container.
My Pro Tip
Recipe Tips
- Use Softened Butter: Make sure the butter is fully softened to blend smoothly with the herbs and spread easily under the skin.
- Loosen the Skin Carefully: Gently slide your fingers under the skin to create space for the butter, being careful not to tear it.
- Season Generously: For maximum flavor, season the turkey both inside and out, along with the herb butter.
- Let Butter Rest Before Using: If making ahead, bring the herb butter to room temperature before spreading it under the skin for even application.
- Baste for Extra Moisture: Mix the turkey with pan drippings or herb butter during roasting to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Rest Before Carving: Allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes after roasting to let the juices redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
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Easy Herb Butter Turkey Rub
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Description
This butter blend will give your turkey a beautifully aromatic flavor, help it turn golden brown and crisp, and keep the meat juicy. It’s one of the secrets to my famous roasted turkey recipe. Enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped thyme
- 1/2 tablespoon freshly chopped sage
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, adds a bright touch)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Soften the butter: Let the butter sit at room temperature until it’s soft and easy to mix.
- Combine the ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice (if using).
- Use the butter: Gently loosen the turkey skin from the meat and rub a generous amount of the herb butter under the skin and all over the outside of the turkey. This ensures a crispy, golden skin and infuses the meat with flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Savory
- Method: American
- Cuisine: French
that turkey 🦃 looks so delicious and tender yummy 😋👍 gotta try that for Christmas 🎄